THIS ONE’S FOR THE FOLKS WHO PAVED OUR WAY

Highlighting a heartfelt, beautiful recent post from @jackiekaiellis:

“This is Lucas and Stella Kai. Many of you know them as my mom jam and dad jam. I love them so.

They came to Canada as Chinese immigrants in the 1970’s: poor, young and in love, working hard to find their way in life, like most youth in any century, from any culture. They worked as janitors, waitresses, farm hands; at hot dog stands, on construction sites; working multiple jobs and going to school while caring for my sister and I, as well as their parents, two cousins, two uncles and an aunt.

Then they both went out on a limb to start their own businesses, not only because they are very smart, capable and brave…but because they had to. The chance of thriving was much better with their own businesses than surviving in a world where even being a “model minority” might not have been enough to make ends meet.

They are model citizens. They both owned successful businesses, and I learned entrepreneurship at our dinner table. They care(d) for their aging parents, sacrificing much to see them comfortable and loved until their last days. They worked many extra hours so that we could have “Canadian” childhood experiences.

With everything going on — racism and hate crimes especially — hitting home, I can’t help but think, what if it had been my mom or dad jam? ... All I know is this: I don’t want to be afraid for my parents, and I don’t want you to fear for yours either.”

Stand tall. Stay strong. Show love. Support local.